GEORGE TOWN – The Penang state government has issued a statement debunking a viral message circulating on social media claiming a rapid spread of mpox infection in the state. State Youth, Sports, and Healthcare Executive Councillor Daniel Gooi confirmed that the Penang health department has verified that the claims are untrue.
“I urge the public to refrain from spreading unverified information that could cause unnecessary fear. Accurate information on the mpox situation can be obtained from official sources like the Penang health department website and the Ministry of Health,” said Gooi in a statement.
The viral message on WhatsApp, sighted by Scoop, claimed that mpox had spread to Penang through contact with animals.
Gooi also said that the MoH has set up mpox operations since August 16 following announcements made by Health Minister Datuk Seri Dzulkefly Ahmad, and that the ministry has intensified its preparations to curb mpox.
When contacted by Scoop, the executive councillor said that the international entry points in the state, such as Penang International Airport and Penang Port, have been placed under enhanced surveillance.
“(This enhanced surveillance is) not only in Penang but the entire nation (as well),” he said. Mpox, which was previously known as monkeypox, has been declared by the World Health Organisation as a public health emergency of international concern.
Earlier today, the MoH said 33 suspected mpox cases had been reported across public healthcare facilities in the country this year. Of the total, 32 have been confirmed negative while the lab result is pending for one case. – August 28, 2024